Ride Hailing Apps Face Service Disruptions As Gig Workers Call Nationwide Strike

Ride hailing services across multiple Indian cities may see disruptions on February 7 after gig worker unions announced a coordinated nationwide strike, calling for improved earnings, social security coverage and greater transparency in platform policies.

Driver collectives have urged app based cab operators to log off services for several hours, particularly during peak demand windows, describing the action as a warning protest rather than an indefinite shutdown. Organisers have indicated that further escalation remains possible if discussions with platforms and policymakers fail to progress.

Worker representatives say declining per trip payouts, frequent changes to incentive structures and rising operating costs have significantly squeezed driver incomes over the past year. Concerns have also been raised over sudden account suspensions, lack of formal grievance redressal systems and the absence of guaranteed health and accident insurance.

The protest comes amid growing national debate around the legal status of gig and platform workers, as several states explore welfare boards and contributory benefit frameworks. Unions argue that platform growth and profitability have not translated into stable livelihoods for drivers.

While ride hailing companies have not announced operational changes, industry watchers expect patchy availability and longer wait times in major urban centres during the strike period.